A Private Elevator to Your Dream Home Part 2: Suburban and Rural Amenities

July 12, 2016
arbor hill basketball court

It’s clear to see why some luxury buyers sacrifice space for urban living: the proximity to arts, culture and daily conveniences can be a big pull—especially when you have your own oasis in the city to come home to every night. However, many luxury buyers opt for a quieter environment, choosing to build larger properties on acreage outside of the city. While they may be further away from modern amenities, many of these home owners bring the city to them, with entertainment, sports and relaxation all available right in their own home.

Take Arbor Hill, for instance. This sprawling, 70-acre mansion located outside of Philadelphia is notable for its full-sized basketball court in place of a formal living room. One of the more popular features in high-end suburban and rural homes is a wine cellar, preferably with a tasting room for guests. Arbor Hill is no exception; its wine cellar has a 4,000 bottle capacity. In addition, the home also features a walk-in humidor, for those who prefer a cigar with their glass of wine.

With a home like Arbor Hill, everything you need is at your fingertips. A two-tiered media room provides the entertainment, while a “playhouse,” a converted 20,000 square foot bank barn, houses a Har-Tru indoor tennis court, sports court, gym, and a high-end sauna.  Many other luxury homes feature pool areas, often with waterfall features and hot tubs, and are bordered by intricate patios and outdoor kitchens, for entertaining when the weather is nice.

Oftentimes, these properties resemble 5-star resorts, with pool houses and guest houses providing ample space for visitors outside of the main home. These visitors are never bored, as there are generally multiple areas built for entertaining. Whether it’s a formal ballroom, horse stables or a putting green, gatherings both formal and informal can be easily accommodated.

Waterfront properties are a big draw for luxury buyers looking for space outside of a city. Whether it’s a sprawling beachfront home built on two lots for extra privacy, a dock leading out to your own private waterway, or even a lakefront home that includes its own golf course and country club, the possibilities for your custom home are virtually limitless.

Whether you trade square footage for living in the center of a vibrant city, or choose a larger space to make your own, the trends in luxury housing are geared toward making your property uniquely yours.